Tue Oct 15 23:04:33 UTC 2024: ## Brazil Snatches Victory in Chile Thriller
**Santiago, Chile** – A late goal from substitute Luiz Henrique secured a dramatic 2-1 victory for Brazil in their South American World Cup qualifier against Chile on Thursday. The victory was hard-earned, coming after a disappointing loss to Paraguay and a string of underwhelming performances.
Chile took the lead early on, with Eduardo Vargas heading home a cross from Felipe Loyola in the second minute. Despite numerous chances to extend their lead, Chile were unable to capitalize. Brazil managed to equalize just before halftime when Igor Jesus, making his national team debut, headed in a cross from Savinho.
The second half saw Brazil dominate possession, and their persistence paid off in the 89th minute. Luiz Henrique, playing for Brazilian league leaders Botafogo, curled a shot from the edge of the box past the Chilean goalkeeper to seal the victory.
The win moved Brazil into fourth place in the standings with 13 points, two behind Uruguay and eight behind leaders Argentina. Chile remain second from bottom on five points.
Earlier in the day, Argentina were held to a 1-1 draw by Venezuela in Lionel Messi’s return from injury. Messi assisted Nicolás Otamendi for the opening goal, but Salomón Rondón equalized for Venezuela in the second half.
Bolivia secured their third consecutive win with a gritty 1-0 victory over Colombia, handing the second-placed team their first loss in the qualifiers. Miguel Terceros scored the winner with a stunning strike despite Bolivia playing most of the game with ten men after Héctor Cuéllar was sent off in the 20th minute.
Argentina remain at the top of the table on 19 points, three ahead of Colombia and four ahead of Uruguay, who have a game in hand. Brazil’s victory sees them leapfrog Ecuador, who drew 0-0 with Paraguay, and sit in fifth place with 12 points.
Only the top six teams in the South American qualifiers will qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
First Piper 